Project Description: Wilderness Warriors is a month-long internship program of The Wilderness Society and Ironwood Tree Experience, serving youth ages 15-20. Youth interns actively explore and make personal discoveries in the deserts, mountains and canyons of Southeast Arizona. Interns are introduced to the natural, cultural and economic benefits of public lands through first hand experiences with the land by hiking, camping and backpacking and connecting with the peoples who advocate and steward our public lands.
Interns gain knowledge and understanding of the management and protection of natural and cultural resources and experience the challenges and successes of wilderness advocacy, policy, and protection. Participants can expect to share their ideas and perceptions in matters of land and water conservation and community stewardship. Interns are responsible for developing a youth-driven, media announcement that advocates for wilderness protection and access and to share experiences in a public presentation.
Please view the updated Ironwood Tree Experience Covid-19 Safety Guidelines for Participants
Wilderness Warriors Spring 2022 Schedule
| Month | Date | Activity | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | Thursday 3/10 | Program Orientation and Meet and Greet | ITE Urban Field Station |
| Sunday 3/13 - Monday 3/14 | Overnight at Sycamore Canyon | Pajarita Wilderness, Coronado National Forest | |
| Thursday 3/17 - Saturday 3/19 | Backpacking Orientation to Hutches Pool | Pusch Ridge Wilderness Area, Coronado National Forest | |
| Saturday 3/26 | Urban to Wild Ecosystems Exploration | Tucson Mountain Park & Saguaro National Park West | |
| Sunday 3/27 | Urban Ecosystems and Advocacy Workshop | Downtown Tucson | |
| April | Saturday 4/2 | Urban Ecosystems and Advocacy Workshop II | Urban Field Station |
| Tuesday 4/12 | WW Closing Showcase | Venue TBD |
Hear what previous years’ Wilderness Warriors Interns had to say:
Madison Birchard
Terra Gomez
Jacob Cooper
Diego Gray
Miguel Ceballos